Iowa Basketball Game Day Outfits: Complete Fan Style Guide

Written by: Tess Helbig

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Time to read 4 min

Iowa basketball season is just heating up! Dressing for a Hawkeyes basketball game can be more fun and intentional that just throwing on black and gold. There are tons of ways to modernize, elevate, and add just an extra touch of style to your favorite game day pieces. Whether you’re heading to Carver-Hawkeye Arena, watching from your favorite sports bar, or from home, the right outfit can keep you comfortable, confident, and ready to cheer on the Hawkeyes in style. From effortlessly athletic looks to streetwear-inspired ensembles, this guide breaks down a variety of outfit ideas to help you find the perfect game day fit. No matter what aesthetic you're going for, we’ve got the inspiration you need to rep black and gold with confidence, style, and warmth this basketball season.

Style Guide: Iowa Hawkeyes Basketball Game Day

COURT-SIDE ELEVATION

Don't sacrifice on style when heading to the stands—find the perfect balance between sporty and chic. Elevation is as easy as adding an oversized black leather jacket. Adding a sleek and edgy touch with an Iowa Hawkeyes graphic t-shirt. Another way to add a touch of elegance is with accessories, duh! Don't forget to add a little glam with earrings, bracelets, and a necklace or two. Western-inspired elements are the latest craze, hop on the trend with cowboy boots. Even if you opt for pants, a pointed toe adds that bit of elevation you're looking for. With a slimmer-fitting pant, you can keep the Western aesthetic going simply by adding a belt that has a statement buckle. Hawkeyes win or lose.. you'll know your outfit won with these elements. 

different components of an outfit styled laid out, just using images of shoes, a purse, jewelry, and a t-shirt

EFFORTLESSLY ATHLETIC

Blend your sporty essentials with elevated basics for a polished yet laid-back look. When heading to Carver-Hawkeye Arena keeping warm is a must. Opt for your favorite Iowa crew neck and a black puffer vest adding both warmth and dimension. Tired of your best jeans? Try a trendier take- wide-leg track pants maintain an athleisure aesthetic without compromising style and will keep you comfy. When it comes to accessories, white retro-style sneakers are a timeless option, keeping the look fresh and functional. Add a minimalist black bag that brings a touch of modern street style and fits stadium bag standards. Finish off your game day look with these effortlessly athletic pieces, ensuring you stay comfortable, warm, stylish, and ready to cheer on the Hawkeyes in true fashion. 

different components of an outfit styled laid out, just using images of shoes, a purse, jewelry, and a crew neck

LOUNGE IN STYLE

Just because you're watching the Hawkeyes from home, doesn't mean you can't still wear a little black and gold. There are tons of ways combine a little style and a lot of cozy. Make it a set, match your game day tee or crewneck with a sweat set or lounge pants that match the top, for a seamless and put together look. With a t-shirt, try a chunky knit cardigan for a structure and certified warmth. Tie team colors back in with colored socks or slippers. Enjoy the game in what makes you feel most at home without compromising on style. All that's left to do is grab your favorite mug, throw on your coziest slippers, and get your favorite blanket. 

different components of an outfit styled laid out, just using images of shoes, a purse, jewelry, and a crew neck

SPORTY MEETS CHIC

Try a sporty-chic take on game day style, blending casual basics with elevated and trending accessories. The fitted graphic tee and relaxed fit jeans keeps it classic and spirited, while the cropped knit hoodie adds a trendy, elevated and cozy layer- keep you warm in Iowa City weather while still stylish. To keep things sporty but still on trend, add a sleek low-profile silhouette shoe that combine retro and modern street style. For a little bonus team spirit, add a pop a color through the shoes. A structured purse and jewelry add a polished touch, and the small oval shaped sunglasses add another retro touch. It’s the perfect mix of sporty, stylish, and wearable, whether you’re heading to the arena or watching from your favorite bar.

different components of an outfit styled laid out, just using images of shoes, a purse, jewelry, and a t-shirt

CLASSIC WITH MODERN TWISTS

Adding modern trends and elements to a timeless outfits is easy and adds subtile elevation. When opting your favorite Hawkeyes crew neck and go-to jeans, start with an oversized white t-shirt as a base layer. To add dimension and intention, let the t-shirt peek out under a crewneck for a clean finish. Another way to modernize the look, is with shoes. Try a chunky black loafer to replace traditional sneakers, adding an elevated, fashion-forward edge. To keep warm and add a modern twist, a scarf can enhance the outfit’s polished appeal and provides versatility with so many ways to wear. Gold accessories, like stacked bangles and a sleek watch, provide just the right amount of contrast and refinement. This ensemble blends all of your go-to Iowa basketball game day staples with just a few modern touches.

different components of an outfit styled laid out, just using images of shoes, a purse, jewelry, and a crew neck

STREETWEAR-INSPIRED

Streetwear continues to dominate the fashion scene, with oversized silhouettes, effortless layering, and a mix of sporty and casual elements, this outfit is the perfect balance between trend-forward and team spirit. Oversized jeans provide a vintage-inspired contrast, keeping the silhouette relaxed yet structured. Platform sneakers balance comfort and trendiness, making them perfect for navigating the court and post-game plans. When wearing simpler, understated Iowa basketball apparel, try adding a pop color in a new way like through accessories. For Iowa City winters, try a gold beanie to tie in the teams colors. Incorporate your favorite staple pieces like a black purse to keep the outfit polished, while silver jewelry— like hoop earrings and layered bracelets add a subtle, edgy shine. This outfit is the perfect fusion of game-day pride and streetwear aesthetics, proving that sporty style can be effortlessly elevated.

different components of an outfit styled laid out, just using images of shoes, a purse, jewelry, and a crew neck

No matter how you choose to show your Hawkeye pride, there’s a game day look that fits your style. Whether you keep it classic, embrace streetwear trends, or go for an elevated look, the key is feeling comfortable and confident while repping black and gold. With the right mix of layers, accessories, and team-inspired pieces, you can elevate your game day outfit beyond the basics. So next time you’re getting ready for tip-off, use this guide as inspiration to bring your own personal flair to Iowa basketball style.

Iowa Basketball Game Day Outfits: Complete Fan Style Guide ↑

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